All In The Family Season 9 Episode 19

Okay, folks, let's talk All in the Family. Specifically, "California Here We Are" (Season 9, Episode 19). Prepare yourselves. I have opinions.

Big opinions. Maybe even...unpopular opinions?

The California Dreamin' Dilemma

The episode revolves around the Bunker clan heading west. They're off to visit Gloria and Mike in sunny California.

Sounds fun, right? Sunshine, palm trees, maybe a little avocado toast? Not for Archie Bunker. He’s not exactly thrilled.

He complains. He grumbles. It's classic Archie, but even for him, it feels extra...much.

He just doesn't want to leave Queens. Which, I get. But come on, Archie! Live a little!

So, the Bunkers arrive in California. What do they find? Well, besides sunshine, they find...change.

Mike and Gloria are, shall we say, evolving. Living that California lifestyle. Trying new things.

And Archie? He's having none of it.

He's surrounded by vegetarians. He is horrified. He has a point though. Where’s the beef?

The clash of cultures is played for laughs, of course. But here's my thing... I think Archie has a point (sometimes).

Here it comes. I’m about to say something that might get me canceled from the All in the Family fan club.

I think Mike and Gloria, in this episode, are kind of annoying.

I know, I know! They're supposed to be the progressive, enlightened ones. But they come across as a little...preachy?

They want Archie to embrace tofu and meditation, and it’s like, leave the man alone! He’s on vacation! (Sort of.)

Gloria’s constant need for Archie’s approval is another sticking point.

Couldn't she just enjoy her life without needing his validation? It's tiring!

Don't get me wrong. The episode has its moments. Archie's fish-out-of-water reactions are gold.

His confusion about the "hot tub" is hilarious. As is his sheer bewilderment at California cuisine.

And the tension between Archie and Mike is always good for a laugh (or a cringe).

But, overall, this episode highlights why I sometimes find Mike and Gloria a little grating.

"Stifle yourself!" - Archie Bunker, probably about my opinion.

They're constantly trying to "fix" Archie. When sometimes, you just gotta let Archie be Archie.

“California Here We Are” is a decent episode of All in the Family.

It's not the best. It's not the worst. It's just…fine.

But it did make me realize that maybe, just maybe, Archie Bunker wasn’t always wrong (gasp!).

So, there you have it. My unpopular opinion on a classic sitcom episode. Feel free to disagree!

Just don't expect me to start eating tofu anytime soon. I'm with Archie on this one.